The best master trainers think, breathe, and eat Pokémon 24/7 (not literally, we hope), so if you "wanna be the very best," then you need to dine like Ash Ketchum! These tasty treats feature your favorite little (and big) pocket monsters, so you can satisfy your munchies while showing off some serious Pokémon pride. Turn your cap backward and get ready to dig in, because these kitchen creations are as amazing as they are nostalgia-inducing (don't worry; we'll call Nurse Joy if you start hyperventilating out of excitement!).

It's a beautiful but long day of training ahead, so energize yourself in the morning with one of Eevee's eight evolutions.

Then, complete your breakfast with the two best starter Pokémon around...

You'll want to pace yourself at lunch, so pikachoose something light, such as a small burger or sandwich...

If you're a bit on the hungry side, Diglett into a delicious rice bowl!

Even if you only have a short lunch break, you can grab something lightning-quick to make.

Whatever you choose, don't eat too much of it, because you'll need a big appetite for your extra-large Pokéball pizza at dinnertime...

...and even more room for all the desserts! Leaf room for a slice of Bulbasaur cake...

...or a slice of Vulpix-ture perfect indulgence.

We won't peek-at-chu if you go for seconds.

Even after you've stuffed your face with cake, you should still have room for one dainty little cookie...

...but once you try one, you gotta taste 'em all!

And you absolutely have to have dessert if it's somebody's birthday!

Snorlax knows what we mean (we hope that top slice is for us).

Anniversary desserts are a must too, because you can totally use Pokémon as a romantic gesture...

...or a declaration of love! Can you feel the Butterfrees in your stomach?

If someone brought these to our doorstep, we would marry that person faster than a Pidgeotto Quick Attack.

We can hear the wedding Bellsprouts already.

Though every one of these culinary creations looks delicious, make sure you enjoy your Pokémon-inspired foods in moderation. Master trainers need to maintain their shape if they want to win the Poké Cup!

Lipcote Lipstick Finder is possibly my best friend right now, as I am on the prowl for a new lipstick color. This website—or “independent guide to lipstick,” as they call it—is a comprehensive list of lipsticks you can sort through using filters such as color and undertone to find shades that will flatter you. You can either filter through the selection by using one category for a broad search, or you can be very specific and use all six categories: price, color, undertone, finish, opacity, and brand.

So, where to begin?! To start at the very beginning, I'll walk you through my experience of Lipcote.

I already know what color family I want: orange! Orange and coral lipsticks are all the rage right now for summer. I already have an orange lipstick shade currently, but a girl could always use more lipsticks in her arsenal, am I right? Plus, I want an orange that is more of a true and bright orange than a red-orange.

I already know my undertone—blue—so I will also put that into the search bar.

Three results pop up. Two from MAC and one from Ellis Faas. I’m really digging the Ellie Faas lipstick, so I click on it. I am redirected to the Lipcote site; it doesn't give me any more information on the lipstick, but from there I can click on the actual website. I fall in love with the color!

There aren't many downsides to Lipcote, except that it is a European company, meaning some of the lipsticks you love won't be available for immediate purchase in the U.S. Luckily, you can still relay what you've learned to the person who helps you out at any stateside makeup department, and she can help you find that shade (or something similar). Fortunately, the color I want is available at the department store I'm going to this weekend, so I will definitely be making my purchase!

The website pulls lipsticks from over 70 make-up brands, including Clinique, OCC, M.A.C., NARS, Revlon, Maybelline, Mary Kay, and e.l.f. I'm a fan of instant gratification and a compulsive shopper, so of course I wish I could just immediately have my lipstick of choice in my hands as soon as I find the color. In the foreseeable future, this should be a reality with the Mink—a personal make-up printer!—but for now, I will just have to wait, be patient and thank Lipcote for helping me find colors that work with my skintone.

If you are a novice in all things makeup, do not get discouraged from playing around on the site. Check out "A Collegiette's Guide to Lipstick" to learn your way around lips!

What do you think of Lipcote, collegiettes? Tell us in the comments!

You’ve just laid your towel out on a lawn chair, showing off your new swimsuit that’s fresh off the rack. Slipping on your shades, you begin flipping through the pages of The Fault in Our Stars. You happen to look up just as he walks by. The lifeguard you’ve noticed for the past couple of weeks just got off duty, and you’re ready to get your flirt on. It’s summer, and it’s time to live! But how do you catch his eye? That’s where we come in!

Throughout these hot summer months, you’ll find yourself in a plethora of situations where you can broaden your horizons and meet new guys. Here’s what to do if you find yourself eye-to-eye with a Grade-A stud in the upcoming weeks. Strap on your sun hats!

1. Buy him a coffee

A good way to meet guys in the summer is to establish a routine.  Go to one of your favorite coffee shops a few times a week to meet up with friends or read a book like the hipster you are.  Soon enough, you’ll start to notice some regulars, just like you.  If one of those regulars catches your eye, consider buying him an iced coffee to cool him off because he’s just that hot.

“I was at this coffee shop that I always used to go to by my house,” says Chelsea, a junior at Saint Louis University.  “I saw this really cute guy, so I bought him a coffee. I had seen him a couple of times before, but I didn’t know his name. So when his order was ready, I told the barista to announce his order by saying, ‘coffee for the cute guy in the grey shirt reading The Catcher in The Rye from the girl reading On the Road.’ We ended up getting coffee together a few times throughout the summer.”

The heat of the summer is the best time to try out your boldest move.  Buying a drink for the cute guy in the coffee shop could be the start to the summer fling you’ve always dreamed of!

2. Use a cheesy pick-up line on the beach

There are a few times a year when it is socially acceptable to use cheesy pick-up lines. Summer is one of them.  

Guys like girls who can tickle their funny bone with pick-up lines that are just cheesy enough to work.

“I was visiting a friend in Kansas City over the summer and he threw a party at his house,” says Peter, a sophomore at Creighton University.  “A couple of hours into the party, a girl walked up to me with this funny look on her face and asked me, ‘Is it hot in here, or is it just you?’ I was so surprised, but I ended up talking to her for the rest of the night.”

Even if it doesn’t work out, at least you were bold and you’ll have a good story to tell!

3. Send a flirty Tinder message

Summer is a great time to give dating apps and online dating a try. Without the distraction of school, you have more time to focus on finding someone to spend those hot summer nights with.

While dating apps may not be for everyone, some definitely make it work. “I never took Tinder seriously,” says Lindsay, a junior at the University of Missouri.  “But then I swiped right for this guy who made me laugh with a super cheesy pick-up line instead of making me cringe like a lot of the guys on Tinder usually did.  And then we just kept talking!”

Lindsay was just sitting on her couch one night when she met the right guy in an unusual situation. She recommends sending something silly or funny to hook a guy’s attention. For example, if you notice that he wrote about liking to fish on his profile, try sending something like, “There are a lot of fish in the sea, but you’re the only one I’d like to catch.” 

4. Approach the lifeguard when he’s off duty

Throughout the summer, you may find yourself babysitting to pick up some extra cash. On one of your daily excursions to the pool, you notice the lifeguard climbing down from his post and heading to the break room.  Now’s your chance to make a move!

After setting the kids up with some popsicles during a break from swimming, Morgan, a junior at the University of Mississippi, chatted up one of the lifeguards at her neighborhood pool.

“I asked him what events were coming up at the pool that I could bring the kids to,” she says. “When I saw him later that week at a poolside barbeque, we were able to talk more. Whenever I nanny, I still take my kids to that pool.”

Whether you’re babysitting or not, hanging out at your neighborhood pool and talking to the people who work there is a great way to not only make new friends, but also meet new guys that you may not have had the chance to talk to during the school year.

5. Give your number to that guy you met on a road trip

While a two-lane highway may not seem like the best place to meet the guy of your dreams, interesting things can happen on an open road with your friends.

“I go on a lot of road trips … so I’ve had a lot of time to hone my skills,” says Dani, a sophomore at the University of Missouri. “One time, my friends and I had the funny idea of fogging up the windows … and writing my phone number. We actually got someone to call me.”

6. Float on the river with a new group of guys

You may find yourself wanting to take a break from your summer internship and hit the water. Deciding to tap into that adventurous spirit, you head out to the river. While catching some rays and going wherever the current may take you, seize this opportunity to float closer to that group of boys who seem to be having a good time.

“I got a group of my girlfriends together to go on a float trip one day,” says Rachel, a sophomore at Columbia College. “We weren’t expecting to meet so many cool people, but a lot of my friends walked away from that day with some new numbers.”

With your friends drifting nearby, you’ll be in a totally comfortable position to approach some unfamiliar boys. And if things head south, float north!

7. Dance a little closer to that hottie at a music festival

A music festival is the perfect spot to meet someone new. Simply by being there, you’re showing that you have things in common.

“You meet so many great people at festivals,” says Cara, a senior at the University of Kansas. “I also love that there are also endless topics for discussion when you’re here. You can talk about the band that’s playing, the band that you’re most excited to see or you can talk about the sea of characters surrounding you.”

Amidst the cheering crowd, take this opportunity to lean into the cutie dancing next to you and ask him what he thought of the last performer. If the two of you hit it off and he strikes your fancy, don’t be afraid to ask him to go see your favorite band with you later!

Between the hot days in the sun and cool nights under the stars, summer is the best time to try out some new flirting tactics. Whether you’re at a party or just lying on your couch, it’s never to late to stretch your wings and tap into that flirting potential!

There are fashion houses — and then there’s Chanel. This week, house designer and living legend Karl Lagerfeld unveiled the Couture Fall 2014 collection, and here at Her Campus headquarters, the drool hit the desks. Karl described his collection as “Le Corbusier goes to Versailles! Modernity with baroque elements!” Well, we passed our art history classes like the good collegiettes we are, but we still want to just call the collection “plain gorgeous.”

Here are our top nine picks from the show.

1. Look #2

The knee-high boots. The tweed details. The bedazzled cuffs. We’d like to wear this for frolicking around in Narnia, please.

2. Look #9

This must be the most perfect camel coat that was ever made. Also, how “Audrey Hepburn goes to Scotland” is that neck scarf?

3. Look #19

Everyone needs a little tartan/tweed combo in their lives, and this outfit has it in spades. We’re not sure where in the continental U.S. flip-flops are a practical choice for fall (or at least, flip-flops that look like these), but this ribbon-ed pair is so cute that we guess we’ll just blast the heat and make it work. Also, it seems like cycling shorts just went high-fashion!

4. Look #24

Um, this has to be one our favorite outfits, because check out the model. It’s Kendall Jenner! We can barely keep up (hehe) with her meteoric rise in the fashion world. She's already rocking a Chanel runway!

5. Look #25

It’s as if a bunch of cotton balls were dipped in red and pink tones, sprinkled in sugar and sewn on a dress. Only Karl Lagerfeld could make something we use to remove our nail polish look amazing.

6. Look #48

It’s… so… beautiful! We adore the sequins, play of textures, sexy slit and, of course, the beautiful demi-train on this dress. Oh, how we wish we could go to prom again (and snag this dress along the way)!

7. Look #52

One-third Star Trek, one-third Dynasty, one-third snow leopard, all amazing. This would be the most chic holiday party outfit ever.

8. Look #63

Can you picture wearing this during the next Polar Vortex? No, neither can we. But between the baroque details, the gold embellishment and the huge buttons, as Rachel Zoe would say — we die.

9. Look #70

This was the last look to appear on the runway, and it’s definitely finale-worthy. We think we’ve found our wedding dress.

We may never get our hands on any of these jaw-dropping Chanel couture pieces, but a collegiette can dream, right?

What did you think of our picks: did you love them, hate them or think we missed some? Let us know in the comments!

Leaving for college at the end of the summer? From browsing the course catalog to picking out dorm decorations, there are so many things to do before you leave. Don't underestimate the power of a movie to help prepare yourself for college, too! Here's a list of the 10 best movies about college to get yourself pumped about starting the best years of your life.

1. Animal House

This infamous 1978 film is supposedly based off of the writers’ own experiences with fraternities when they went to college. The movie chronicles the efforts of college freshmen, Larry Kroger and Kent Dorfman, as they pledge Delta Tau Chi at Faber College. The frat is filled with your typical bros, such as John “Bluto” Blutarsky, portrayed by John Belushi, who has a GPA of 0.0. While some of the incidents Larry and Kent encounter are a little extreme and outlandish, you could definitely come across some of these experiences yourself! From toga parties to cheating boyfriends to bad grades, this movie will expose you to the trials and tribulations of Greek life.

2. Good Will Hunting 

In this 1997 drama, Matt Damon stars as 20-year-old Will Hunting, a janitor at MIT and a genius. Even though Will can’t afford to attend college and has a long history of run-ins with the police, education is his top priority. An MIT professor takes him under his wing and helps him turn his life around. Despite the fact that Will is not actually a college student, this film is full of lessons that every college student can learn from, like learning how to handle both your past and future. Plus, many scenes of the movie are filmed in the greater Boston area, which helps display the famous college town.

3. Monsters University 

This recently released prequel to the 2001 Disney Pixar film Monsters, Inc. reveals what Mike Wazowski and James “Sulley” Sullivan were up to before they started scaring children. Mike and Sulley, both scaring majors, get ejected from the esteemed Scare Program at Monsters U and have to work hard to get their education back on track. In addition to their struggles at school, the two become roommates for the first time and have to learn how to live with each other despite being very different. Even though you and your roomie might not have much in common, that doesn't mean you can't become friends!

4. Sydney White 

This 2007 spin on the famous fairytale Snow White features Amanda Bynes as Sydney White, a tomboy trying to rush a sorority. However, the head of the sorority and president of student council, Rachel Witchburn, portrayed by Sara Paxton, tries to do everything she can to prevent Sydney from pledging. In response, Sydney bonds together with seven dorks in order to try and bring down Rachel and her elitist and exclusive views. This movie shows how Greek life may not be for everybody, and it’s important to focus on finding a group of friends who you feel comfortable with.

5. The Social Network 

We can’t imagine college without Facebook, so let’s go back to the social network’s birth. In this 2010 film starring Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Zuckerberg’s story about how his popular site took off is showcased for all to see. Also featuring Justin Timberlake as Sean Parker and Andrew Garfield as Eduardo Saverin, this movie exposes the secrets and conflicts behind the founding of Facebook and the lawsuits that followed. An Academy Award winner for the Best Adapted Screenplay category, this film is definitely one for all you Facebook addicts to watch.

6. The Roommate

This 2011 thriller is perfect to show all you incoming freshmen what your roommates will NOT be like – at least, we hope! Sara Matthews, played by Minka Kelly, meets tons of new people during her freshman year, including her roommate, Rebecca Evans, played by Leighton Meester. As time passes, Rebecca becomes obsessed with Sara turns increasingly violent as Rebecca looks to destroy anyone who could come between her and Sara. As you anxiously wait for your roommate assignment, just know that your roommate will never be as terrible as Rebecca!

7. Dead Man on Campus 

This 1998 film is based off the urban legend that if a college student’s roommate commits suicide, then he or she will get straight A’s for the semester. Mark-Paul Gosselaar portrays Cooper Frederickson and Tom Everett Scott plays his roommate, Josh Miller. The two desperately need to improve their grades quickly. Cooper, a lazy student, spends most of his time partying at school, and Josh begins to adopt this lifestyle as well. Josh needs to earn an A+++ on his term paper in order to keep his scholarship, while Cooper needs to earn passing grades or his dad will stop paying for college. The two then begin searching for a depressed third roommate who will hopefully kill himself so they can get straight A’s. When you’re off at school, it’s important that you stay on top of your schoolwork so you’re not put into Josh and Cooper’s situation! Although it’s easy to get carried away and tempted by the freedom at college, it’s no excuse to neglect the academic side of school.

8. Pitch Perfect

Have you heard the song “Cups” by Anna Kendrick on the radio? This popular 2012 film not only has a great soundtrack, but also contains some great lessons for college. Beca Mitchell, played by Kendrick, has no desire to be at college and would much rather be creating music of her own. However, she must attend school and join a club in order to please her father. Beca’s talent and great voice lands her a spot on an a cappella group called the Barden Bellas. This movie highlights the best parts of college: clubs, friends, and that one cute boy you can't keep your eyes off of.

9. Higher Learning

This 1995 drama follows the lives of three different incoming college freshmen. Omar Epps plays an African-American boy, Malik Williams, who is a star on the track but not in the classroom; Kristy Swanson plays a quiet but troubled white girl, Kristen Connor; and Michael Rapaport plays an outwardly awkward white man named Remy. The three go through your typical college experiences, from living with their roommates to going to sports practices to rushing fraternities. At the same time, the movie addresses issues of race. This film is a great lesson in understanding others’ backgrounds.

10. Legally Blonde

This 2001 film features Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods, the president of her sorority at a school in Southern California. Elle knows everything about fashion, but ends up deciding to study for the LSAT and apply to law school in order to try and win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner Huntington III, played by Matthew Davis. After studying for hours on end, Elle is accepted to Harvard Law School, yet she is judged by her fellow students when she gets there because of her blonde hair and bubbly personality. Elle can serve as inspiration that it’s never too late to change your mind about what career path you want to pursue. She also can teach us not to judge a book by its cover, because she ends up being very successful in the law field when many of her colleagues initially pinned her as a dumb blonde.

While a lot of events in movies about college may seem like they would never happen to you, there is always something to take away from them. Be sure to check out these 10 films before you leave for school!

There are fashion houses — and then there’s Chanel. This week, house designer and living legend Karl Lagerfeld unveiled the Couture Fall 2014 collection, and here at Her Campus headquarters, the drool hit the desks. Karl described his collection as “Le Corbusier goes to Versailles! Modernity with baroque elements!” Well, we passed our art history classes like the good collegiettes we are, but we still want to just call the collection “plain gorgeous.”

Here are our top nine picks from the show.

1. Look #2

The knee-high boots. The tweed details. The bedazzled cuffs. We’d like to wear this for frolicking around in Narnia, please.

2. Look #9

This must be the most perfect camel coat that was ever made. Also, how “Audrey Hepburn goes to Scotland” is that neck scarf?

3. Look #19

Everyone needs a little tartan/tweed combo in their lives, and this outfit has it in spades. We’re not sure where in the continental U.S. flip-flops are a practical choice for fall (or at least, flip-flops that look like these), but this ribbon-ed pair is so cute that we guess we’ll just blast the heat and make it work. Also, it seems like cycling shorts just went high-fashion!

4. Look #24

Um, this has to be one our favorite outfits, because check out the model. It’s Kendall Jenner! We can barely keep up (hehe) with her meteoric rise in the fashion world. She's already rocking a Chanel runway!

5. Look #25

It’s as if a bunch of cotton balls were dipped in red and pink tones, sprinkled in sugar and sewn on a dress. Only Karl Lagerfeld could make something we use to remove our nail polish look amazing.

6. Look #48

It’s… so… beautiful! We adore the sequins, play of textures, sexy slit and, of course, the beautiful demi-train on this dress. Oh, how we wish we could go to prom again (and snag this dress along the way)!

7. Look #52

One-third Star Trek, one-third Dynasty, one-third snow leopard, all amazing. This would be the most chic holiday party outfit ever.

8. Look #63

Can you picture wearing this during the next Polar Vortex? No, neither can we. But between the baroque details, the gold embellishment and the huge buttons, as Rachel Zoe would say — we die.

9. Look #70

This was the last look to appear on the runway, and it’s definitely finale-worthy. We think we’ve found our wedding dress.

We may never get our hands on any of these jaw-dropping Chanel couture pieces, but a collegiette can dream, right?

What did you think of our picks: did you love them, hate them or think we missed some? Let us know in the comments!

It’s another fabulous weekend in the big city. You’ve just finished an exhausting week of work, and you’re ready to explore the bustling city nightlife. There’s just one little glitch – you’re under 21. While your new friends from work are begging you to meet them for drinks at the bar or check out the new nightclub, you’re stuck counting down the days until your 21st birthday.

Well, no need to worry, collegiettes! We have the inside scoop on the best places to go if you’re under 21 and living life in a big city. These local hotspots are open to 18+ collegiettes but have a 21+ feel. Read on for more!

Boston

1. Rise

Venue: Dance club

Price: $20, $10 discount with a college ID

Address: 306 Stuart St.

Website: http://www.riseclub.us/ 

Open on Fridays from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., Rise is the perfect place for a night out in Boston if you’re under 21. This venue is the only “after-hours” dance club in Boston, and it includes a multilevel dance floor and live DJ.

“Rise is pretty much the only place I went during my freshman year,” says Ali, a junior at Boston University. “It’s such a fun place, and with the student discount, it was a totally affordable night.”

2. Improv Asylum

Venue: Comedy club

Price: Ticket price may vary depending on the show, but a single ticket is usually $25

Address: 216 Hanover St.

Website: http://www.improvasylum.com/

While clubbing the night away can be the perfect cure to a horrible week, we can’t be dancing queens every weekend. If you’re looking for a fun alternative to the bump-and-grind club scene, check out Improv Asylum, a popular comedy theater on Hanover Street.

“It’s a great place for a first date or just a fun night out,” says Becca, a junior at Suffolk University.

3. Club Passim

Venue: Concert hall

Price: Ticket price may vary depending on the show, with prices from $5-$20

Address: 47 Palmer St., Cambridge

Website: http://www.clubpassim.org/ 

For a classic coffeehouse experience, try Club Passim. As a self-proclaimed “listening room,” Club Passim offers an intimate and cozy space with live music performances almost every day of the week. The venue also shares space with Veggie Planet, a vegetarian restaurant that will serve snacks or meals during any of the concerts.

“I absolutely love Club Passim,” says Katy, a sophomore at Boston University. “I’ve never been very big into the whole club scene, so this is a nice alternative to that.”

New York City

1. Joe’s Pub

Venue: Concert hall

Price: No cover charge, but there is a $12 food/drink minimum

Address: 425 Lafayette St., Brooklyn 

Website: http://joespub.publictheater.org/programs--events/joes-pub/?SiteTheme=JoesPub 

Since its opening in 1998, Joe’s Pub has become one of the most popular performance venues for the college-aged crowd. With an intimate atmosphere and a full dinner menu, Joe’s Pub is the perfect place for a night out with friends. Past Joe’s Pub performers include Jason Mraz, Amy Winehouse, Adele, Lady Gaga, Ne-Yo and Norah Jones.

“Joe’s Pub is the best,” says Julian, a sophomore at New York University. “I usually go there with a big group of friends because it’s cheap enough and has a comfortable setting.”

2. Webster Hall

Venue: Nightclub

Price: Ticket price varies depending on the night

Address: 125 E. 11th St., East Village

Website: http://www.websterhall.com/ 

Webster Hall is one of the oldest and most famous entertainment venues in New York. With over 40,000 square feet and a 1,500 capacity, Webster Hall is a true nightclub experience. The venue is open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night with a different party type for every night. Thursdays are called “House Party” with a hip-hop theme, Fridays have a techno dance vibe and are called “Girls & Boys” and the weekend ends with “Brite Nites,” an interactive dance party with live performances.

“Before I turned 21, I used to go to Webster Hall about once a month,” says Michelle, a senior at Columbia University. “It was a great way to meet new people, and, of course, a ton of fun.”

Houston

1. Numbers

Venue: Dance club

Price: $10

Address: 300 Westheimer Road 

Website: http://www.numbersnightclub.com/ 

There is no place in Houston quite like Numbers. The bar and concert venue offers a circus-like atmosphere complemented with the 1980s retro dance music and crazy outfits. Employees wear anything from fishnets to pink mohawks and invite guests to do the same, creating a seriously memorable night in this Texas city.

“Numbers is an experience,” says Kelsey, a junior at Rice University. “Be prepared going in, because you’re going to have a totally unforgettable night no matter what happens.”

2. South Beach

Venue: Dance club

Price: Free before 11 p.m., $15 after 11 p.m.

Address: 810 Pacific St. 

Website: http://southbeachthenightclub.com/ 

As the premier gay dance club in all of Houston, South Beach has a unique flair to it. There is no real dress code, and the club encourages any kind of wild fashion statements on its two dance floors.

“South Beach really is the best gay bar in town, but no matter who you are, South Beach will welcome you,” says Madison, a junior at the University of Houston.

Chicago

1. Lincoln Hall

Venue: Concert hall

Price: Ticket price varies depending on the show, with prices from $10-$20

Address: 2424 N. Lincoln Ave.

Website: http://lincolnhallchicago.com/Home+Page/Home

For a casual night of live music and entertainment, there’s no better place in Chicago than Lincoln Hall. The concert hall offers an open floor and a viewing balcony for the show and cozy and quiet seating in the back. Lincoln Hall also has a small restaurant that offers wraps, burgers and sides. 

“Chicago is an amazing place for music, but Lincoln Hall is the best,” says Jane, a sophomore at the University of Chicago.

2. Metro

Venue: Dance club

Price: Ticket price varies depending on the show, with prices from free to $25

Address: 3730 N. Clark St.

Website: http://www.metrochicago.com/ 

With live performances, Metro is a great place to go if you’re looking for a hot dance club. Between the main dance floor and the upper balcony, the club has a huge capacity of 1,150 people. Metro’s past performers include Jack Johnson, Kanye West, Arctic Monkeys and Fall Out Boy.

“Metro is the place to go when you just need to blow off the past week and have a great time,” says Caroline, a senior at DePaul University.

Atlanta

1. Eddie’s Attic

Venue: Concert hall

Price: Ticket price varies depending on the show, with prices from $10-$14

Address: 515 N. McDonough St., Decatur

Website: http://www.eddiesattic.com/ 

A 15-minute drive from downtown Atlanta (about an hour by public transit), Eddie’s Attic in Decatur is a small concert venue for music lovers. Musicians like John Mayer, Sugarland and The Civil Wars have all performed in this intimate setting. With a capacity of less than 200, all seats are close to the stage and provide great acoustics. Make sure you show up early to get a good seat!

“Eddie’s Attic is close to campus, so it’s always filled with college students,” says Vicky, a sophomore at Emory University. “It’s a good place to go with a couple of friends for a chill night.”

2. Opera Nightclub

Venue: Nightclub

Price: Ticket price varies depending on the show, with prices from $10-$30

Address: 1150 B Peachtree St. NE

Website: http://operaatlanta.com/index.cfm 

Open Wednesday through Saturday, Opera is Hotlanta’s premiere dance club. This beautiful venue has a large dance floor, a balcony lounging space and even an outdoor patio space. On Thursdays, expect to hear the best dance music, and Fridays there’s great EDM. Opera does have a strict dress code, so make sure you dress to impress!

“Opera Nightclub can be more of an expensive night out, but it’s worth it if you’re out for a big celebration or event,” says Ashley, a senior at Emory University.

San Francisco

1. Rickshaw Stop

Venue: Concert hall

Price: Ticket price varies depending on the show, with prices from $10-$20

Address: 155 Fell St.

Website: http://www.rickshawstop.com/ 

A former TV studio, Rickshaw Stop is definitely an interesting concert hall. Rickshaw Shop has live music almost every night with past performers like M.I.A., Vampire Weekend and Wallpaper. And in case you get hungry during your night out, Rickshaw Stop serves anything from tamales to lasagna.

2. Ruby Skye

Venue: Dance club

Price: Ticket price varies depending on the show, but tickets are usually $20

Address: 420 Mason St.

Website: http://www.rubyskye.com/welcome.html 

Located in the famed theater district of San Francisco, Ruby Skye was originally a theater. Today, Ruby Skye has turned into a modern and elegant dance club. With its grand Victorian-inspired design and modern dance music and DJs, Ruby Skye will turn your summer night into an event to remember.

Nashville

1. Play

Venue: Dance club

Price: $10

Address: 1519 Church St.

Website: http://www.playdancebar.com/index.php/play-nashville 

Play Dance Bar is the premiere gay bar in Nashville. It’s most famous for its drag shows. The cover charge is only $10, but make sure you bring cash since Play does not except credit or debit cards.

“I absolutely love Play,” says Megan, a sophomore at Belmont University. “I always have a great time, and all of the people there are fantastic.”

2. SEEN

Venue: Dance club

Price: $5

Address: 114 Second Ave. South

Website: http://seennashville.com/ 

As its motto suggests, SEEN is the place to be seen in downtown Nashville. SEEN hires local and national DJs to perform during the club’s Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday night events.

“SEEN really shows off the best of Nashville with all of its high-energy fun,” Megan says.

Washington, D.C.

1. 9:30 Club

Venue: Dance club

Price: Ticket price varies depending on the show, with prices from $15-$35

Address: 815 V St. NW

Website: http://www.930.com/ 

With live shows all week, the 9:30 Club is a fantastic place to go in D.C. The club is open to all ages, so it provides a wide variety of music and performances. 9:30 also has a fully stocked non-alcoholic bar so you can splurge and order yourself a Shirley Temple! Or, if you’d prefer a caffeine boost instead, the club also features a full coffee bar for all guests. 

“Even though I’m over 21, I still recommend this place to all of my under-21 friends because I think it gives a good bar/nightclub feel,” says Victoria, a junior at George Washington University.

2. The Birchmere

Venue: Theater

Price: $20-$45

Address: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, Va.

Website: http://www.birchmere.com/ 

If you’re looking for a twist on the classic dinner-and-a-movie night, try The Birchmere. This 500-seat dinner-theater venue offers a night of musical performances and delicious food. Events at The Birchmere can get a little pricey since the total cost includes the cost of dinner and the show, but locals say it’s worth it!

“Birchmere is a good spot for a fancy night out with a date or just a girlfriend,” says Hannah, a senior at American University.

For any collegiette, a summer in a big city can be fabulous for gaining work experience and expanding your social life. Every big city is full of things to do no matter how old you are, so don’t let the pre-21 blues ruin your weekends!

We’ve all heard the popular phrase “It gets better,” which is used to give young LGBTQ+ individuals hope for the future—but is it really getting better? Not so much for transgender folks, who are often left out of their own movement and face transphobia from others. Read on to find out exactly what transphobia is, how it’s damaging and how it can be stopped – with your help!

Terminology you need to know

First of all, let’s start out with some important definitions for those of you who might not be in on the lingo:

Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity or expression doesn’t match the gender they were assigned at birth. It is often abbreviated to “trans.”

Cisgender: Someone whose gender identity matches the gender he or she was assigned at birth; someone who is not transgender. It is often abbreviated to “cis.”

FTM: FTM stands for “female to male.” It refers to people who were assigned female at birth but identify as male.

MTF: MTF stands for “male to female.” It refers to people who were assigned male at birth but identify as female.

Gender binary: The classification of sex and gender into two distinct, opposite forms: male and female.

Nonbinary: An umbrella term that can be used to describe those who fit outside the gender binary, meaning they don’t identify as just male or female: they can be neither, both or somewhere in between.

Genderfluid: Those who identify with this term consider their gender to be fluid and constantly changing.

Agender: Many agender people describe themselves as being neither a man nor a woman, or being without a gender.

Transphobia: The fear or hatred of transgender people. Transphobia can be anything from misgendering someone to being violent towards a trans person. Unfortunately, transphobic acts are not uncommon, even on supposedly safe spaces such as college campuses, classrooms and dorms.

What transphobia looks like

Misgendering

Misgendering is when someone uses the incorrect pronouns for a trans person, such as calling a trans woman “he” or a trans man “she.” This can be accidental or on purpose, but either way, it can lead trans individuals to feel as though they aren’t “passing” as the gender that they are. This could potentially lead to dysphoria, a term used to describe a person’s unhappiness, and to more negative mental-health side effects.

Additionally, misgendering a person, especially in front of a group of people, forces a trans person to make the decision whether to correct you or stay silent – a choice that can lead to insecurity, embarrassment or even danger.

Lilith Starr, a trans woman and college student from Indiana, is no stranger to this. She faces rude and confused stares in the classroom and has even worse experiences at work.

“My supervisor misgenders me and laughs with the student workers,” she says. Lilith would sometimes correct others when they misgendered her, but only when she felt up to it.

Of course, sometimes misgendering happens by accident and isn’t meant to be hurtful. But even if you’re not trying to hurt a trans person or put them in danger, cis collegiettes should be careful not to make that mistake.

Violence towards transgender individuals

In today’s world, it’s no secret that if someone doesn’t understand something, they can often grow to be afraid of or hateful towards it. That is unfortunately the case with how others view transgender people. Trans women have a one in 12 chance of being murdered, and trans women of color have a one in eight chance.

Islan Nettles, a 21-year-old transgender woman, was one of those women. She was beaten to death in New York by a man who allegedly got angered when he found out she was transgender. This man was only charged with a misdemeanor as opposed to murder, and the charges were later dropped, despite the fact that there were several witnesses who saw what happened.

What happened to Islan Nettles is horrifying, but it isn’t unique. From November 20, 2012, to November 1, 2013, alone, it’s estimated that 238 transgender individuals were murdered.

Work discrimination

Transphobia can also make it very hard for transgender individuals to find or keep a job. Thirty-two states in the U.S. do not have laws protecting employees from gender discrimination in the workplace. The Human Rights Campaign reports that “in the 2011 National Transgender Discrimination Survey, 47 percent of respondents reported experiencing a negative job outcome – such as being fired, not hired or denied promotion – because they were transgender or gender non-conforming.”

Trans college students face discrimination as well. Lauren*, a trans woman from Concordia University, says she’s always afraid and unsure if she should reveal the fact that she’s trans to others.

“Sometimes I feel like I am passing by cisgender people’s standards, so maybe I don’t need to tell people I’m trans,” she says. “But I’m always afraid of what might happen if I don’t. It’s so hard finding a roommate once you tell them you’re trans, and it’s just so discouraging. I’m just not sure if it’s something I need to put on a resume or not. I don’t think it’s something you should have to worry about.”

How you can help stop transphobia

Sure, it’s unrealistic to think transphobia can end overnight, but if you follow these steps you could help spread awareness and protect the trans people around you.

1. Educate yourself.

The main reason trans individuals are still either ignored or vilified is due to the lack of knowledge many people have about them.

“Some folks, they just don’t understand. And they need to get to know us as human beings,” transgender woman and activist Laverne Cox told TIME. “But I do believe in the humanity of people and in people’s capacity to love and to change.”

Not sure where to start your trans education? Here are some websites to get you started:

• GLAAD is a great resource to find LGBTQ+-related news and information.
• PFLAG is another organization that helps individuals learn about different sexual orientations and gender identities and supports LGBTQ+ individuals and their families and friends.

If you’re on Twitter, here are a few interesting accounts that post anything from tidbits from their daily lives to information about being trans:

• Sophia Banks: @sophiaphotos
• DarkMatter: @DarkMatterRage
• Trans People Speak: @TransSpeak

If you’re into reading, here are some great books you can check out!

• Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More is a memoir by trans woman and activist Janet Mock. In this book, Mock explores what it means to be a woman today and the struggles that have accompanied her throughout life.
• Some Assembly Required: The Not-So-Secret Life of a Transgender Teen is about the life of teenager and trans man Arin Andrews, who writes about his journey and transition, both of which haven’t always been easy but have led to embracing family, friends, his first love and himself.

2. Ask people about their preferred pronouns.

If someone hasn’t told you which pronouns they prefer, go ahead and ask before you use any! It may seem like an odd or awkward practice, but it could make a transgender individual feel immediately more comfortable around you.

3. Admit when you’re wrong.

We all make mistakes. If you’re cisgender, even if you’re part of the queer community, it’s unlikely that you’ll go through life without making a mistake, whether it’s using the wrong pronouns, using someone’s old name or just saying something transphobic without realizing it. If you’re called out on it, apologize to the person whom you hurt and admit that you messed up.

When you take responsibility for your actions, it shows that you truly do care and want to support transgender individuals. How you react to being called out on mistakes says a lot about you and the type of person you are. Don’t be someone whom trans people feel they can’t trust, especially if you claim to be an ally.

It’s important to be aware of the harmful effects of transphobia and take action against it. Gay rights have come a long way, so why is it that transgender people are still so underrepresented? Don’t forget the T in LGBTQ+, and help support transgender people everywhere!

Hottest Dad Award can officially go to Ryan Gosling in a few months, according to whispers in Hollywood. Our favorite heartthrob of a leading man and his gorgeous girlfriend, Eva Mendes, have just announced the exciting news that Mendes is seven months pregnant with Gosling's child.

The couple has been dating since 2011 – coincidentally, that's about how long we've been crazy jealous of Mendes. After playing parents together in The Place Beyond the Pines, the power couple are now rumored to be becoming parents in real life. While their relationship has been slightly rocky thus far, this may be the push Gosling needs to settle down, according to a source in OK! magazine. “Ryan grew up without a dad, so he always said when he had kids, he’d be there no matter what... This is it for him,” said the source. The source also added that Mendes hopes to seal the deal with a ring before the baby is born.

What the arrival of this baby holds in store for the famous couple's relationship, we will all see soon enough. But we do know for sure that this baby is blessed with really – and we mean REALLY – great genes. Talk about hot Mom and Dad status! What a good-looking family they will turn out to be.

Mendes was quoted in an article in The Sun gushing, “[Ryan] loves babies, and he loved playing with the little boy who played our son. It was adorable to see him in that light.” Just seeing how adorably in love Gosling is with his dog, we're sure he is going be a great father! Eva Mendes is one lucky lady to have Ryan Gosling by her side, if the rumors are true, and we wish them the best with this exciting new addition coming into their lives! We just wish it was us, obviously.

We all know that along with eating balanced meals (and the occasional chocolate-chip cookie) and getting enough sleep, exercising is essential for a healthy lifestyle. However, most of us aren't Olympic athletes, and it would definitely be a lie to say we enjoy every single second of our adventures in cardio and strength training. In fact, there are 21 distinct stages of every workout - and most of them involve pain.

1. You feel like a fitness model in your perfectly coordinated outfit.

2. But forcing yourself to actually go work out is an enormous struggle.

3. You try to motivate yourself, but all you can think is:

4. You get to the gym, and you're kind of intimidated by all the hardcore fitness junkies.

5. But as soon as you start, you’re like, “Why was I dreading this?”

6. “I’m a fitness rock star.”

7. Unfortunately, all of your energy evaporates after five minutes.

8. You'd like to think that you don't look too bad...

9. ...but it's actually like Niagara Falls up in there.

10. You look at the clock and you can’t believe how much time you have left.

11. You try to distract yourself by singing along to your workout playlist.

12. You find a guilty-pleasure show on the gym TV.

13. However, each moment still feels like an eternity...

14. ...and you really, really hope no one you know will see you.

15. Finally, you realize you’re almost done.

16. The last 30 seconds of your workout feel amazing…

17. ...and you're all, "That was easy."

18. When you get home, you want to devour everything in sight.

19. An hour later, you’re exhausted.

20. At least you have that post-workout endorphin glow.

21. And then you realize you have to do it all again tomorrow…

During the summer, collegiettes are constantly on the go; whether you’re road tripping all over the country, hitting the beach, heading to the office, dancing the hot summer nights away or settling in for a night of Netflix, there’s no predicting where you’ll be headed come morning. That’s why you want to be prepared: you need products that are ready for anything, anytime, anywhere!

So, celebrate the unpredictable, amazing summer with Her Campus and StudentRate! We’ve teamed up to bring one lucky winner a $300 Sephora gift card AND a Lenovo Yoga Tablet HD!

With all of those Sephora cosmetics on your hands, you’ll be able to beat any frizz, sweat or shine that beach days might throw your way. Plus, you’ll be able to take your Lenovo tablet anywhere; it adjusts to all the angles you’ll need while lying on a beach chair or sitting at your desk—wherever your day takes you!

What are you waiting for? Your free swag awaits! Enter here to win the best on-the-go goodies of summer!

It’s summertime, and the sale finding is easy! Especially for our favorite shoe of the season: the sandal. They’re cute for any occasion, whether you’re hitting the beach, the boardwalk or the bonfire. Here are our favorite affordable picks at amazing discounts—grab them now before they’re gone.

1. Sam Edelman Selma Circus, marked down from $45.00 to $26.99

These sandals, which come in black, gold and saddle, would be perfect with an ankle-brushing maxi skirt or a crisp white button-down and jeans.

2. AEO Sliver Wedge, marked down from $29.95 to $19.99

We love this American Eagle pair for adding some Americana flair to our outfits.

3. Seychelles Tofino Slides, marked down from $58.00 to $39.95

These leopard slip-ons are definitely not for everyone, but we think they’d look adorable with some tailored cotton shorts and a nice blouse.

4. Zara Leather Wedges, marked down from $99.90 to $49.99

Some days, you just need to stand a little taller. This option from Zara, available in mint and orange, will give you a couple extra inches, and would look easy, breezy, beautiful with a chambray shirt-dress or your favorite pair of jeans.

5. Hope Sperry Top-Sider Sandals, marked down from $60.00 to $41.99

Oh, say can you seeeeee… how cute these striped babies are? Next time you’re looking for shoes to jazz up your basic bathing suit cover-up, wear these!

6. Not Rated Blow Out Sandals, marked down from $39.99 to $35.99

These are super femme. Please, universe, send us a hot guy (perhaps a Ryan Gosling look-a-like?) so we can wear them out on a dinner date!

7. Delia*s Sarah Studded Sandal, marked down from $19.90 to $9.90

Simple, sleek and studly. Need ideas for rocking these? We think they’d look great with a black bandage skirt and a denim jacket.

8. ModCloth Outer Bank on It Sandals, marked down from $39.99 to $19.99

It doesn’t get any more precious than a pair of floral strappies. We beg you, buy these so we don’t — and then break everyone’s hearts by wearing them with a skater skirt and a comfy v-neck.

9. Soda Dino Black Buckled Ankle Strap, marked down from $20.00 to $14.00

Get your toes ready, because it’s “Feet Meets World” in these sandals. Too cute, and so affordable!

Are you swooning from your intense style cravings yet? Now you have nine pairs of sandals just dying to make it into your shopping bag, and then your heart! At these prices, you can definitely treat yourself to a pair (or three). 

Great news: there was virtually no sexual assault on 45 percent of college campuses with over 1,000 students between 2010 and 2012! But if that number sounds too good to be true… that’s because it is.

According to Emily Shire of the Daily Beast, since the White House reports that one in five women are sexually assaulted while in college, it is "statistically impossible for a university not to have suffered any incidences of forcible sexual offenses."

So then how do so many schools have zero-rape campuses? Well, the federal government requires colleges and universities to self-report their number of “alleged forcible sexual offenses” under a law known as the Clery Act. So when a school doesn’t report any incidents, it doesn’t mean there aren’t any occurring. There’s a problem: either people aren’t reporting them or the school isn’t adequately tracking them.

"There are some accusations of schools under-reporting or misrepresenting. Rather than labeling something as sexual assault, they may label it just as assault so it looks less severe,"Tracey Vitchers, a spokesperson for Students Active For Ending Rape (SAFER), said.

Students also may be afraid to come forward or may not know where to go for help.

Unfortunately, this means that it becomes very difficult to gauge the campus safety of specific schools. For example, in 2012 Barnard College in New York reported zero incidents of sexual assault, while Columbia University, which is literally across the street, reported 14.  

According to Jezebel, professors and activists have created a map that overlaid the Clery data with estimates of how many students, statistically, we would “expect to see” based on the actual occurrence of campus sexual assault.

It’s bizarre, but true: the closer the reports from the Clery Act come to these “expected” assaults, the more progress we will have made. Why? Because it means both students and administrators will be actively addressing the problem.

"Of all the co-ed residential colleges across the nation," Occidental professor Caroline Heldman told Jezebel, "there isn't a single one that's exempt [from the campus rape epidemic], so the schools with the higher numbers are actually schools where the survivors feel more comfortable coming forward. It's a sad fact that we want higher [reporting] numbers."

What do you think should be done to improve the accuracy of these reports, collegiettes? Do you think your school does a good job of making students feel like they can come forward or get help?

So, that guy who sits three desks down from you at your internship is so cute. And smart. And hilarious. You find yourself slowly turning into the Skintern (tsk, tsk) to catch his attention. He sends you cute lunch date e-mail requests and jokes to you under his breath about all the characters you have to deal with in the office. He’s the Jim to your Pam.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right time or place to jump into an office romance. While they can be exciting and a great way to make your day at your internship happier, intern romances or even just hook-ups can also cause a lot of trouble, and may not be the best place to find your summer love. So if you find yourself flirting with that cutie from the marketing department, read this before you go playing footsies under the conference room table.

Consider the office dynamic

A huge factor to keep in mind when entering into a work fling is the dynamic at the workplace. Whether you’re an intern at a small start-up with fewer than 50 employees or an intern at a large corporation with branches all over the country, an office romance can still be pretty iffy to get away with.

If you’re interning at a small company, it can be harder to both keep your fling a secret and avoid any awkward repercussions should anything go wrong with it.

“Office hook-ups are dangerous territory,” says Kathleen Bogle, author of Hooking Up: Sex, Dating and Relationships on Campus. “Some people, men in particular, will avoid office hook-ups because they don’t like getting involved with someone who cannot be avoided after the fact.”

Sound familiar? Not something you want to be dealing with (or making the rest of your small office watch you deal with) for the rest of the summer.

If you’re interning at a larger company, you’re also in a sticky position, because although you most likely have less direct supervision, your actions and your work speak will extra loudly. You have fewer chances to impress your bosses and superiors, so you have to make each opportunity to do so really count. Don’t let the only time your boss sees you all week be when you’re flirting with another intern over the water cooler instead of getting your work done—he or she could think you’re taking boys more seriously than your internship.

Consider how it will affect your future

Internships can open many doors for your career in the future, but only if you gain the right experience and foster the right relationships during them. Even if you’re interning in a field or company that you don’t see yourself at 10 years from now, your supervisor is still going to be the person who a future employer would ask about your work ethic and how you conducted yourself at the office. What you may think doesn’t count now might hinder you later on.

“Summer internships give you a few short weeks to prove your intelligence and your work ethic, no matter what kind of work you’re doing,” says Alissa, a collegiette at UNC-Chapel Hill. “If you’re hooking up with another intern and can actually manage to keep it a secret, I guess that’s okay, but there’s always a chance that your bosses or superiors will find out and that will render you less professional in their eyes. They’ll think that you couldn’t even focus on the internship for such a short period of time without being distracted by boys.”

Consider if he’s really worth it

But what if you’re really, really into that fellow intern? Feelings are feelings, and there’s no way to control whether or not those feelings seep into your internship.

“The workplace is an obvious place for sexual and romantic interest to strike up, but these situations are not so easy to manage,” Bogle says.

If you absolutely can’t resist getting to know him better, try to seek out opportunities to hang out outside of your internship. This will not only help keep the potential fling under wraps, but it will also give you the chance to decide if he’s actually interesting and funny, or if he’s just some much-needed comic relief in a boring office. Assess whether or not he’s worth the risk of the problems that could result after a breakup.

“Since most hook-ups, or dates for that matter, don’t lead to walking off into the sunset, then you have to consider how you will handle working with someone when it’s over,” says Bogle. “As much as we would like relationships to end on good terms, often one person wants to end it and hurts the other, and that is not something you want to deal with every day at work.

“I am not saying that office romances should always be avoided; many people meet someone they really care about, possibly even their future spouse, at work,” says Bogle. “But, you do have to be careful not to get in over your head unless the potential relationship is work the potential risks.”

So where does this leave us? Are we forbidden from internship hook-ups and romances, or is there some wiggle room? While it really does depend on the situation, collegiettes definitely need to keep their wits about them during their summer internship and consider all of the benefits and consequences before engaging in an internship fling.

Collegiettes, what’s your stance on internship hook-ups and romances? Have you or would you ever have one? Let us know in the comments below! 

Will we ever be like them? Can we achieve those levels of perfection? Their fur is so glossy, their whiskers perfectly groomed. On our budget, we could never afford that collar with a bell or such a lavish flavor of Fancy Feast. We know them, we love them, but—don’t worry—they’re just like us!

They have long days at the office!

They agree to share dessert, even if they both want their own!

They pamper themselves at the spa!

They find creative ways to exercise!

They try to do parkour!

They try to be DJs!

They try on clothes that don't fit!

They feel mortified when it's not a costume party after all!

They run into their middle school arch-nemeses at the smoothie place!

They listen to their friends' boy problems... for the 10th time!

They love pleasure reading!

They have to endure the morning commute!

Sometimes they have nothing to wear!

They enjoy sports!

But most of all, they love pizza!

Whenever you get down on yourself and just wish that you could have it as easy as a cat, remember - they're just like us!

We all need a little guidance now and then, so whether you’re stressed about a fling gone wrong, a recently wrecked relationship or how to handle a stage-five clinger, Real Live College Guy Dale is here to help you navigate the college dating scene.

I have been dating my boyfriend for almost six months, and for the most part, we are a really good fit. However, we disagree about one very serious issue: society's objectification of women. He is completely convinced that women are empowered and content, and advertisements that feature sexualized images of women do not have a strong effect on the psyches of young women everywhere. He also does not believe that there is a connection between objectifying women's bodies and the prevalence of sexual assault. I love my boyfriend, but I am also a proud feminist and a women's advocate. I know these are very real issues, and it feels like a personal affront that he minimizes an issue that is so central in my life and education. How do we move forward as a couple from this point? –Misogyny? in Minnesota

I’ll be honest with you, Minnesota: I’m not sure you should move forward as a couple. While minor conflicts are normal in relationships (neither of you knows what to eat for dinner, for instance), conflicts involving important personal ideals are another situation completely.

You’re right: these are important issues, and they impact you directly. To me, it seems entirely normal that you would be offended by his inability to understand where you’re coming from. At the same time, you love him and everything outside of this particular issue is fine.

But your ideals define you as a human being, and you’ll carry them with you from college to later in life. As much as you might love him, your relationship may very well be temporary. Sure, you could ignore his opinion entirely, but differences like these linger, and they’re going to spur arguments and lead to unhappiness.

I’ve seen couples break up for less, Minnesota, and if I’m being completely honest, I don’t believe you should be with someone you disagree with to this extent.

What you need to decide for yourself is whether or not his inability to sympathize with your ideals is a deal-breaker for you. Personally, I think it should be. I think that something like this is going to leave a growing crack in your relationship. He should at the very least understand where you’re coming from, but it doesn’t sound like he does. Perhaps more so, it doesn’t sound like he ever will. Can you really thrive in a relationship where your ideals aren’t respected? Do you even want to live with a relationship like that?

Sometimes it might feel like you’re the only collegiette who didn’t trade a paycheck for an unpaid internship this summer, but you’re not alone, and you definitely shouldn’t regret it. The next time your best friend brags about her glamorous internship in the big city, remind yourself (or her, if you’re feeling feisty) of why your low-paying, unskilled job is 100 percent worth it:

If You’re a... Waitress

1. Because when the moment comes that the chef decides to give the servers a taste of his new dish, you will be first in line with a fork in hand (and a napkin for stealing some for later).
2. Because you know every wine on the list, and because you can use this skill to impress your future French lover. Enchanté.
3. Because you look hotter in a bow tie than any boy you know.
4. Because even though you look hotter in a bow tie than any boy you know, those bus boys come pretty darn close.
5. Because carrying those trays of glasses has given you superhuman balance skills that make dancing in five-inch heels feel like a cakewalk. Workkk. Ittt.
6. Because you can count every cash tip you earn as a Venti iced caramel macchiato, and now you’re guaranteed a steady caffeine and sugar buzz for the next 10 months. Who needs sleep?
7. Because you’ve successfully followed in the footsteps of Rachel Green... now you just need to convince your boss to change the name of the café to ‘Central Perk’ and hire a Gunther look-alike.
8. Because with great power comes great responsibility, and you sleep well at night knowing you make a daily choice not to spit in your customers’ food.
9. Because that handy employee discount means you can “treat” your boyfriend to dinner... without actually coughing up the cash. Hello, loophole!
10. Because you work nights, meaning you get to be the tan one amongst the poor, Vitamin-D deprived souls that are your intern friends – or were your friends, before you drove them back into the shadows of their cubicles with the blinding glow of your skin.

If You’re a... Babysitter or Nanny

1. Because the hardest part of your day is convincing the youngest boy not to eat dirt and/or bugs, and if you fail, oh well... it’s organic, right?
2. Because you’ve learned the words to every Justin Bieber and One Direction song ever played on Radio Disney, and you now have 60 ways to tick off your boyfriend when you’re feeling passive-aggressive.
3. Because you secretly enjoy Justin Bieber and One Direction, and because you plan to capitalize on your newfound skills to kick some a** at Karaoke Night.
4. Because kids have older, hotter brothers, and since you are also older and hotter, there’s really nothing stopping you, is there?
5. Because the parents keep a candy drawer in the house and you have free reign, Willy Wonka.
6. Because bedtimes exist.
7. Because you are really awful at Hide and Seek. So awful, in fact, that the kids sit and hide silently for over half an hour while you “look for them”... if “look for them” means “play Words With Friends with your roommate.”
8. Because you will never get bored of pinching a giggling baby’s cheeks. Literally never.
9. Because you have age and wisdom on your side when it comes time to play Monopoly and Clue. #winning.
10. Because listening to the Aéropostale-clad pre-teen girl talk to her friends about the status of her Instagram account (!?) and use the word “jelly” instead of “jealous” reminds you of how sweet it is to be past your awkward stage.

If You’re a... Lifeguard

1. Because your life is a Baywatch episode, minus the slow-mo soundtrack and David Hasselhoff’s excessive chest hair.
2. Because your tan lines might have more complex geometry than your ninth grade math class, but you still look better in a bathing suit than literally anyone else you know (all of that running on the beach that they show on Baywatch? True story).
3. Because you always smell like coconut and it drives your boy toy wild.
4. Because everyone wants to be the girl on the paddleboard. B*tch is in charge.
5. Because when Shark Week rolls around, everyone you know is suddenly incredibly interested in your job: “Have you seen a shark before!?” they ask. Well, that floating half of a car tire looked like a fin for a second... so the answer is yes, yes you have.
6. Because you will always win at Marco Polo. Always.
7. Because sitting up in that chair feels kind of like sitting on a throne above your subjects, and you’ve been told you look a bit like Kate Middleton. Born to rule?
8. Because your male co-workers are all of the young, muscular, half-naked variety – and what a coincidence, that’s your favorite variety!
9. Because you are first in line for Pop-Ice at the snack shop, which means pinks and reds all day, every day, like a champ.
10. Because people-watching is so much more fun when you’re getting paid to do it.

If You’re an... Ice Cream Scooper

1. Because “I don’t like ice cream,” said no one ever.
2. Because you see all of the locals, so you know exactly how poorly that popular girl from high school aged without even having to show up for the reunion.
3. Because your scooping arm might as well have been borrowed from The Hulk. Never struggle to open a jar again.
4. Because you know exactly which flavor you’ll want when That Time of Month arrives. Instant gratification.
5. Because breathing in the sickly sweet smell of ice cream all day actually helps your diet – when you’re off work, the last thing you want is to dive into another bowl of the stuff (let alone ingest it). Ah, the power of classical conditioning.
6. Because customers tip you, pitying you for your “minimum wage” job... meanwhile you’re growing a stack of bills the size of Texas in your back pocket thanks to suckers like them.
7. Because now you know exactly how many calories are in a scoop of ice cream. Kiddie cone, please?
8. Because being a good employee means scoping out the competition. You’ll simply have to test each and every ice cream parlor in a 25-mile radius to make sure yours is best, and probably hit up some fro-yo shops for good measure...
9. Because nothing says, “I’m sorry about your break-up” like a freshly packed pint of ice cream, and you just became the best friend there ever was.
10. Because no one will notice if you sneak a little butterscotch, right? Right.

If You’re a... Camp Counselor

1. Because they wouldn’t let you be a camper anymore once you got older, but you – you sneaky collegiette – you found your way back in. There’s no age limit on this earth that could keep you away from those cabins.
2. Because you can make literally anything out of a pipe cleaner and some glitter.
3. Because you’re the best rower in the canoe. Sure, your arm span is twice as long as everyone else’s, but who’s measuring?
4. Because you were one frat party past your bro tolerance for the year and now there are barely any boys in sight, let alone lax pinnies. Sweet, sweet freedom.
5. Because during your rotation as supervisor of the tennis courts, you’ve developed a forehand to rival Maria Sharapova’s. U.S. Open, here you come!
6. Because your forehand hasn’t gotten any better—it’s possibly worse—but you look super cute in that flouncy little dress.
7. Because after another semester in the city, you need the daddy long-legs and chipmunks to remind you that nature is not something that exists solely on Animal Planet.
8. Because all of your guy friends respect you for roughing it in tents and lean-tos... little do they know you’re living in a cabin complete with showers, air conditioning, and outlets for your hair straightener.
9. Because Skit Night reminds you that if you ever wanted an Oscar, all you’d have to do is ask.
10. Because you’re one of the only girls who’s even close to the male Australian windsurfing instructor’s age... G’day, mate!

And the best reason you should be happy to be a minimum wage-working collegiette:

1. Because at the end of the day, you like money, and so do your unpaid intern friends. The difference is that you actually know what it looks like.

Many of us have experienced it: the mid-summer blues and the struggle to wake up and head out to our summer jobs. Our arms are tired from scooping ice cream, we’re sick of the awkward tan lines left by our lifeguarding bathing suits and if we hear the words “summer camp color war” one more time we think we might scream. Whether you’re waitressing, working at the mall or babysitting, by mid-summer, it can get pretty tough to make it through the home stretch of your job. But before you quit your job in a moment of insanity or just serious stress, HC’s providing you with six awesome reasons to pull through. So collect your marbles and march on, collegiettes!

1. Your job is a resume builder

We all know how important writing the perfect resume is in getting your first after-graduation job. Adding summer jobs, even ones that are duds, will add to that resume perfection. So maybe it’s a little painful to bring yourself to your job every day this summer, but adding it to your resume might help you get your dream job one day. When that happens, you’ll be thankful!

For those collegiettes working part-time jobs scooping ice cream or standing behind a retail counter, these resume builders will show your ability to learn a skill set quickly and work cooperatively with others in a professional setting. Remember that even the smallest of jobs can connect back to the career you want for the rest of your life.

That’s what Kelsey, a junior at Indiana University, does with her summer job. “My daily tasks can become tedious, so I tried figuring out a way to stay motivated,” she says. “I try to connect each task with my personal and professional aspirations.”

Shannon Curtis, the assistant director at Assumption College’s Career Development & Internship Center, agrees that part-time jobs can add to your resume. “You’re not just listing off … the responsibilities you have in a summer role, but effectively communicating what skills are going to be transferrable to what you’re looking to do,” she says.

So if you work in retail and are looking to get into business after graduation, don’t just list on your resume that you folded clothes and worked a cash register. Talk about the customer service experience you received and the things you learned about operating a business.

Making connections from your summer job as a lifeguard to what you want to do in life can be tricky and might require some creativity, but it’ll add meaning to your work and strength behind your resume.

2. The perks of your job

Ah, yes, job perks: the exact reason why you chose the summer job you have. With employee discounts, free dinners at the restaurant you waitress at or the cutie you’re lifeguarding with, job perks are everywhere. Whatever your job is, try to focus on these small perks when you’re feeling down about your work!

“The discount from my retail job definitely did my wallet more harm than good for the first month I worked,” says Sarah, a freshman at Framingham State University. “After a little bit, though, it became the best thing ever. I don’t see myself leaving my job because I refuse to pay full price for jeans.”

3. You’re making money

Remember back in April when you ate cereal for three meals a day because you couldn’t afford anything else? Remember when you were excited for this job because then you’d be able to buy real food? Despite being sick of your job, you’ll be thankful when you return to school in the fall with a full bank account and the ability to buy real meals!

“I think about the money I will have and that’s about it,” says Kourtnie, a senior at Assumption College, about her waitressing job.

Remember that good customer service is key in making that paycheck fatter. Ice cream scoopers who work hard at making the best desserts will make better tips, retail workers who make their company more money will in turn get more hours and babysitters who have fun with the kids will certainly get asked back. Even when simply waiting tables for the summer, putting forth your best effort in exchange for good tips is definitely something you’re capable of doing.

Remember that the job market out there is tough—whether you’re working a big-time paid internship or taking orders at the local coffee shop, you’re lucky to have a paying job. So many people today aren’t able to get a job like you have. If you’re feeling the mid-summer job slump, try heading into work knowing that you’re lucky to even have a paying job that you’re sick of.

4. Your coworkers are awesome

Nothing ruins the workplace mood like the curmudgeon who heads in with a bad attitude. Remember that your job might be menial, but your fellow coworkers can be your friends. Instead of heading into your job with a bad attitude, try enjoying the company of those you work with!

That’s what Allison, a recent graduate from the University of New Hampshire, did with her summer job. “I was friendly and kind to fellow employees,” she says. “It felt good to make other people feel good, which helped me get through the rest of the summer.”

Being a positive person is infectious in a work environment, and knowing that you made at least one person smile is a good way to get through your job.

And remember that quote, “misery loves company”? It’s pretty true. Maybe the job you’re working at stinks, but the people you’re with don’t! Amy, a junior at Emerson College, dealt with her less-than-glamorous summer job by befriending her fellow employees. “Having a bad summer job is way more manageable when you have people to commiserate and complain with,” she says. “We learned to laugh together at how terrible the job was.”

However, it’s important to make sure you don’t cross the boundary of being an all-out complainer. A few qualms here and there are okay—just read the reactions of your coworkers. Make sure they’re not annoyed! No one likes a total downer.

And if the people you work with aren’t so stellar? Remember to always take the high road. Horrible coworkers are hard to be around and it can be tempting to be just as horrible back to them, but know that immature behavior can only come back to hurt you. Remember: cattiness and immaturity are things to leave behind when you clock in. Try to turn the other cheek, and if their behavior becomes unacceptable, reach out to your boss or supervisor for private mediation.

If nothing else, working with crappy people is a great way to learn how to deal with people you don’t like—a skill that is always applicable to future jobs.

5. You’re giving back

For collegiettes spending their summers volunteering, the light at the end of the tunnel might be a little bit harder to see. When the lack of pay for all of your hard work is the only thing you can concentrate on, try to remember why you decided to volunteer in the first place.

“I spent all last summer volunteering on this sustainable farm,” says Kate, a sophomore at Boston University. “It was wicked hard work, and most of the summer I was really mad I was working on a farm instead of at the beach because I wasn’t getting paid. But then I would always remind myself I was giving back to the environment.”

Whether you’re volunteering to build a resume, support a cause you believe in or simply to get good karmic vibes, remember that volunteer work can be life-changing. Instead of concentrating on a nonexistent paycheck or how hard the work is, think about all of the good you’re doing.

6. Networking, networking, networking!

Networking—we’ve all heard the word, we all know what it means and we all know that it’s super important. Remembering that every job is an opportunity to network is the best way to get through a job you don’t enjoy. It’s also a good way to remember to always put forth your best effort, because you never know who could be a reference for you in the future.

Nicole, a senior at Assumption College, keeps this in mind with her job. “I kept telling myself that I want to use this place as a reference/take advantage of connections, and I couldn't do that if I left/started half-a**ing my job,” she says. In a world where employment is a game of knowing the right people, it’s important to make sure those people are impressed by you.

It’s easy to think that a part-time summer gig won’t land you with many connections, so it’s okay to be lazy or provide bad customer service, but that’s not the case, collegiettes! When you’re working as a waitress or being a camp counselor, you never know whom you’re going to run into. A camper’s parent could be the CEO of your dream company, a customer at your restaurant could know someone at a school you’d like to teach at or your fellow retail worker’s cousin could work for the admissions department of a grad school you’re interested in. You should always try to do impressive work no matter how small your job may seem.

“Get to know people and learn a little bit more about them,” Curtis says. “Introduce yourself, put yourself out there … and make sure you’re branding yourself in a positive light.”

Don’t be afraid to take advantage of these networking opportunities by connecting with coworkers on LinkedIn or by exchanging emails. Showing interest in your field and an eagerness to learn more is great for personal branding and for impressing potential bosses.

And summer employees won’t just be networking with customers; remember to network with your boss, too. If you put forth your best effort in your job, your boss can’t give you anything but a sparkling recommendation.

Keep in touch with old bosses who might know higher-ups at the company or who can introduce you to a friend who works in your future field. Make LinkedIn your best friend to keep the professional connections coming. As for Facebook? “It depends on the relationship you have with your manager,” Curtis says. “I would recommend a more professional approach and keep it with LinkedIn.” If you’re on the fence of what’s appropriate, collegiettes, always err on the side of professional.

Remember, collegiettes: the mid-summer job slump is a natural thing. We’re all sick of waking up early, dealing with customers and seeing sunny days pass us by while we have to work. While the light at the end of the summer is coming closer into view, keep in mind the benefits of your job and remember that it’ll all be worth it.

Where do you draw the line between healthy jealousy and let’s say… Spencer Pratt? A little jealousy never hurt anyone, but when guys let that green monster get the best of them, relationships can suffer. You’ve heard countless tips on how to make him jealous, but what if you want to do just the opposite? If you’re in a situation where you’re dealing with a partner who is super jealous, check out what our surveyed guys have to say about the situation and how the experts can help you deal.

In her book Secrets of Happy Couples, Kim Olver– coach, speaker, author and love expert – calls jealousy the relationship killer. “Jealousy will eat at the foundation of a relationship until there is no love left.” So what can you do if you’re dealing with a guy that’s a little overly green? Olver suggests understanding the roots of jealousy to help you identify the problem, but also recognizing that it’s not yours to “fix.” With a little insight into the mind of the man and some expert advice, Her Campus has put together some advice that will lead you in the direction of a healthier relationship.

He’s Insecure

Olver identifies insecurity as one of the roots of jealousy. If your guy is constantly putting you on a pedestal and bringing himself down, he may be suffering from low self-esteem. According to Dan Lier of Ask Dan and Mike, a relationship expert duo featured on NBC, CNN and Inside Edition, “the lower your man’s self esteem, the more jealousy he experiences. Don’t let looks and achievement fool you into thinking he has high self-esteem. Some of the most attractive men are the most jealous, as they lead the way in regards to insecurities.” He might think you’re too good for him, having thoughts like, “Why would she ever date someone like me?” or “I bet all the guys at the bar are all over her.” While these may sound like great compliments to you, there may be an underlying issue in what he is saying. Andrew, a student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign says, “I get jealous when she’s out and doesn’t respond to my texts all night. It makes me think that whatever she’s doing is more fun than talking to me and it makes me wonder why we’re dating if she’s not thinking about me when we’re not together.”

One of the best ways to deal with an insecure boyfriend is to build him up… he may just need some reassurance that you’ve only got eyes for him. Lier believes that communication is the key to overcoming his insecurity. He suggests asking your guy, “What has to happen for you to know that I am with you, and loyal to you?” According to Ask Dan and Mike, the more healthy conversations you have together, the more trust you and your partner will build and the more connected you will become. A text here and there or a phone call at the end of the night lets him know you’re having fun but thinking about him, and that should ease his mind. Just remember, you shouldn’t be glued to your phone when you’re out, constantly updating him with your every move; it’s important to remain independent while also respecting his feelings. If his nagging is obsessive and he constantly needs to know what you’re doing, you need to reevaluate the relationship; these are signs that it could be an unhealthy one.

You Play Games

We’re all guilty of a little game-playing sometimes. The whole upper hand/lower hand dynamic in the relationship can get us a little crazy. You’re craving attention and you know exactly how to get a rise out of him, but that might be your problem. Carole Lieberman, media psychiatrist and best selling author of Bad Girls, Why Men Love Them and How Good Girls Can Learn Their Secrets, believes that a little touch of jealousy isn’t bad; “it keeps your guy on his toes.” Lieberman identifies the problem as women provoking men into becoming jealous. Girls see jealousy as an easy read that a guy is still interested in them, so they’ll do whatever they know will make their own man envious. Playing games like flirting with other boys in his presence, ignoring his calls and texts and toying with his emotions is dangerous because guys may take it too seriously and their jealousy could escalate. Keep your games in moderation; nobody wants their emotions and feelings disrespected. He won’t know when you’re being authentic and when you’re looking for a rise if you’re not truthful in your actions. Take it from Franic, a student at Loyola University of New Orleans. “I hate when she flirts with other guys or gives other guys more attention than me,” he says. ‘If she’s doing that when I’m around, what is she doing when I’m not there?” Don’t give off the impression that you want someone else when all you really want is the guy you already have; your game-playing could backfire, so keep things honest.

He Was Cheated On

Another root of jealousy, according to Olver, is past experience. It’s not just your past that can make your guy jealous, but maybe something in his past as well. If he was with someone who was unfaithful, you should ask yourself if you’re okay with putting up with his insecurities. Eric from the University of Iowa says, “I don’t think I’m a jealous person, but my last girlfriend cheated on me, so sometimes the girl I’m with feels like I bring the weight of that into our relationship.”

He may be unusually inquisitive about your plans or need extra reassurance of your feelings for him. Olver suggests giving him a realistic time frame to show improvement if you believe the past cheating incident was recent. She says if he doesn’t show improvement, you may have to consider accepting his ways, or leaving.

You Lost His Trust

In her book, The Secrets of Happy Couples, Olver also talks about how to rebuild trust in a relationship if you’re the one that cheated. She writes, “You have some work to do. You must open yourself up for him to trust you again. You must end contact with the other person and allow your partner access to every area of your life until he can begin to trust you again. If you cannot rebuild the trust, you need to accept how your relationship has changed, or leave. If you lost his trust somewhere down the road, chances are his jealousy is just a defensive instinct.

He Feels Threatened

If your boyfriend feels threatened in your relationship, he may get extra jealous when other guys are in the picture. When you tell stories about your guy friends or talk about how funny his pals are, chances are he may get a little jealous. Richard from the University of Wisconsin-Madison gets jealous “when she lets other guys buy her drinks at the bar, because [he wants to] be the one to do that.” This is a perfectly normal response to your behavior. Be sure he understands your feelings for him. Lieberman believes that when your boyfriend interrogates you about a certain guy, it’s your job to prove that you are just friends. She believes that if he starts making this a habit, however, then you should start looking for other signs that he is too controlling… and to start thinking of making your exit before his jealousy escalates into abuse.

He Doesn’t Want Things To Change

Many guys get controlling when they feel the situation is slipping out of their hands. Olver believes he may be using jealousy as his best attempt to keep you connected to him out of guilt or obligation. If he feels you pulling away, trying to force you to act the way he wants you to act is his last attempt to keep things the way they once were. Mac from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign recalls a recent break-up that taught him a lesson in relationships. “My ex-girlfriend and I broke up last year because she wanted to start seeing other people. Looking back, my attempt to keep her from breaking up with me was pretty pathetic. I used to get really mad when she would bail on plans, but I should have seen that she just wasn’t interested anymore.” If he wants a forever relationship and you feel differently, Olver suggests the kindest thing to do is to end your relationship and allow him to find someone who will love him the way you used to or in the way that he desires.

If you can identify what it is that is making your guy so jealous, hopefully you two can work it out. If you think his jealousy is more than a little unhealthy, seriously consider getting out of the relationship before things escalate. If you’re unsure if his jealous behavior is considered abuse, the National Domestic Violence Hotline compiled a list of questions to ask yourself:

Does your partner:

• Embarrass you with put-downs?
• Look at you or act in ways that scare you?
• Control what you do, who you see or talk to or where you go?
• Stop you from seeing your friends or family members?
• Take your money or Social Security check, make you ask for money or refuse to give you money?
• Make all of the decisions?
• Prevent you from working or attending school?
• Act like the abuse is no big deal, it’s your fault, or even deny doing it?
• Shove you, slap you, choke you, or hit you?
• Threaten to commit suicide?

Visit here for more information on abuse. 

Jealousy ranges from pesky and annoying to life-threatening. If you think you’re in an abusive relationship don’t hesitate before calling 1.800.799.SAFE.

If you find yourself encountering garden-variety jealousy, use these tips to salvage the situation. Remember to keep open communication with your guy so you can recognize when your own behavior is inspiring jealousy. Decide to what degree you’re willing to alter your behavior to prevent or lessen his jealousy so there is no confusion on either side. Jealousy will always be a part of your life, but it doesn’t have to control your relationship (and it shouldn’t!). In the words of Dan Lier, co-author of 10 Secrets Every Woman Should Know from Two Guys That Do, “there are a lot of good guys out there who don't have jealousy issues... so if he doesn’t accept that he has a problem or isn’t willing to fix it, save yourself the drama and cut him loose.”

Whether you’re traveling to visit family, heading out for a weekend trip or going abroad, getting the best trip ever is all about spending money wisely. Traveling can be expensive when you factor in flying, accommodations and food, not to mention the other little expenses, like souvenirs and cab fare. The best way to spend your vacation is to not be worrying about every little dime. It’s time to start planning your trip now!

Transportation

Flights

When booking your flight, make sure you get the cheapest one possible! Websites such as Expedia compare flights across airlines to show you the different departure times and cheapest prices for tickets.

Irene Berman-Vaporis, a recent graduate of Boston University, recommends using Skyscanner and Adioso, which are other websites that compare airline prices. “I've recently started using Adioso to look for flight deals when I don't have firm plans,” she says. “The site is perfect for flexible travelers looking to snag the best prices possible. You can subscribe to get emailed when the price for a flight drops within your price range.”

Once you get your flights, download TripIt, which is a free app (available for iPhone, iPad, Android devices, Blackberry and Windows Phone) that lines up your flights in one neat place. This is great if you have several trips coming up, as this app will organize them easily.

Other transportation

If you are unsure of whether to fly or drive, do a comparison of the prices for your travel. Check airlines to see how much you would spend if you flew there, and compare that to a gas calculator, such as the one available on GasBuddy, to see how much it would cost to drive. If taking a bus is also an option, check Greyhound to compare prices. Amtrak is a good option for finding train transportation. When you have all of these prices in front of you, choose the one that works best with your budget.

Accommodations

Looking for a hotel can be a complete disaster if you go in unprepared. Hotels can be incredibly expensive, and the cheaper ones could be dangerous or unclean. But with some research, you can get a great hotel at an even greater price!

One thing to keep in mind while you’re looking for accommodations is that hotels can be tricky with their pricing. Try using Tingo to book your hotel. If the price of your room goes down after you book it, Tingo will refund your credit card the difference. Pretty sweet deal, right?

If you want to book a hostel instead of a hotel, try a website like Hostelworld to find accommodations. Hostels are typically much cheaper than hotels, but you may have to share a room with strangers and/or bring your own linens and towels. Be sure to check the ratings of any hostels you’re interested in (particularly cleanliness and security ratings) before booking!

When on the hunt for a hotel or hostel to stay at, keep in mind the extra perks that can lower your other travel expenses.  “Try to see if they offer continental breakfast,” says Alexandra Reyes, a sophomore at Blue Mountain Community College. “That way, you save money on a meal!” With amenities such as free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast, sometimes spending those few extra dollars can save you money in other places.

Making a price spreadsheet

Because budgeting is important, making a price spreadsheet in Excel or Google Drive that lists out all of your costs will help you not go over your budget.

Here are some expenses to include in your price spreadsheet:

• Transportation
• Hotel room (overall, not per night)
• Food
• Taxi money
• Money for entertainment (museums, shows, etc.)
• Miscellaneous expenses (any side trips or souvenirs you know you’ll pick up)

Traveling shouldn’t suck the money out of your bank account—and you shouldn’t need another vacation to recover from the difficult planning process! With these tips and tricks under your belt, planning your next trip will be easy. You deserve an awesome trip, and that includes being able to plan it with ease. Don’t forget to send us a postcard!